1973 Buick Centurion vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Centurion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Centurion would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Buick Centurion (225 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Buick Centurion should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Centurion weights approximately 126 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Buick Centurion. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Buick Centurion (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1973 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1973 Buick Centurion has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Buick Centurion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Centurion | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Centurion | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7468 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2076 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2840 mm |
